Policy approaches tailored for Digital Hub Networks
Report on National and Regional Hub Associations including 7 documented Case Studies and Comparative Analysis
The context
Makerspaces worldwide face several challenges, including unfavourable policies, limited resources, and financial instability, which hinder their progress. Various advocacy approaches have been identified to address these issues, such as adopting a joint or collaborative strategy, engaging all relevant stakeholders—including the general public, policymakers, and aligned networks—and forming dedicated committees to spearhead advocacy efforts.
The goal
The report explores the activities undertaken by innovation hubs and hub networks to drive their development. It highlights key policy advocacy actions in Europe, suggesting that these could be advantageous if adapted to the African context. Additionally, the report advocates for a bottom-up, multi-actor policy approach tailored specifically for hubs and hub networks in Africa.
Type of resource
Report
In a nutshell
This report examines how Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs) and makerspaces organise themselves into supportive structures for growth and effective policy advocacy. It emphasises the importance of innovation hubs in Africa expanding their advocacy efforts beyond the hub ecosystem to impact African cities at large. Key recommendations include aligning stakeholder interests, securing sufficient funding, and learning from successful advocacy efforts to ensure impactful policy actions.
